This accolade is presented to young investigators who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to the field of psychoneuroendocrinology.
Dr. Spencer-Segal received this honor based on here laboratory’s manuscript of original research, “Ventral subiculum control of avoidance behavior and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis reactivity via the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis in male and female mice,” as well as her past accomplishments and personal statement. The award manuscript is now published online in Psychoneuroendocrinology (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107229).
The study utilized chemogenetics to reveal a novel function of the ventral subiculum in activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis via the anterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. By manipulating these neural circuits, Dr. Spencer-Segal's research distinguishes the neuroendocrine and behavioral responses to stress, demonstrating separate pathways within the same limbic systems. She had the honor of presenting this award-winning research during a plenary session at ISPNE 2024.
Along with this recognition, Dr. Spencer-Segal received an honorarium, a plaque, a travel grant to attend an ISPNE annual meeting, and a three-year exemption from Society membership dues.
Dr. Spencer-Segal's contributions to psychoneuroendocrinology include both preclinical and human subjects research devoted to behavioral endocrinology. Her findings have contributed to our understanding of the mechanisms through which sex and stress hormones affect cognitive and emotional behaviors and psychiatric vulnerability. In addition to this translational research program in the Michigan Neuroscience Institute, Dr. Spencer-Segal cares for patients with pituitary disorders in the University of Michigan’s Multidisciplinary Pituitary Clinic.
Please join MNI in congratulating Dr. Joanna Spencer-Segal on this remarkable achievement!